Hey guys,
I was feeling rather studley today as I successfully changed my own spark plugs with hardly a hitch. I say hardly because I DID have to take a side trip out this morning first to get some copper-based anti-seize for the new plugs' threads (as specified by Bentley).
My problem is that the rear two plugs on each side were oily, especially the rearmost (presumably due to angle and gravity). SO, I guess my valve cover gaskets are leaky and need replacing. :wrench I took a couple of photos (attached).
The help I am seeking is:
1) take a look at my photos and tell me how "bad" the problem is (I'm at 104,400 miles) - is it critical to not drive one mile further or can it wait a couple of weeks?
2) How tough a job is changing vc gaskets, really? Anyone here do it on a M62TU?
3) Is there any "trick" like adding any sealant anywhere, or do you pretty much plop the new rubber gasket in place and go? Tips for cleaning the old gasket surface? Is OEM the best gasket or is there an improved aftermarket gasket out there?
Thanks for the help, if you can provide! Right now, my plan is to do this job myself in a couple of weeks (my next chance), IF the car will wait, and IF I can really do it.
I was feeling rather studley today as I successfully changed my own spark plugs with hardly a hitch. I say hardly because I DID have to take a side trip out this morning first to get some copper-based anti-seize for the new plugs' threads (as specified by Bentley).
My problem is that the rear two plugs on each side were oily, especially the rearmost (presumably due to angle and gravity). SO, I guess my valve cover gaskets are leaky and need replacing. :wrench I took a couple of photos (attached).
The help I am seeking is:
1) take a look at my photos and tell me how "bad" the problem is (I'm at 104,400 miles) - is it critical to not drive one mile further or can it wait a couple of weeks?
2) How tough a job is changing vc gaskets, really? Anyone here do it on a M62TU?
3) Is there any "trick" like adding any sealant anywhere, or do you pretty much plop the new rubber gasket in place and go? Tips for cleaning the old gasket surface? Is OEM the best gasket or is there an improved aftermarket gasket out there?
Thanks for the help, if you can provide! Right now, my plan is to do this job myself in a couple of weeks (my next chance), IF the car will wait, and IF I can really do it.